There are two main tests that most colleges use when making admissions decisions.
These are the SAT and the ACT. They are very different and that can give you an
advantage. The first thing to do is find out if the college you are interested in
requires you take one test or the other. If that college accepts both, and many do,
you have an advantage; do some research and find out what style of test you score
better on, the SAT or the ACT. Keep in mind you can always take both multiple times.
Finding the test you are more comfortable with can help raise your score increasing
the chances of being accepted at a specific college.
Plenty of resources exist to assist your preparation for both the SAT and the ACT.
Having practice with the types of questions each test offers is helpful for many students.
Some of these resources are on this page in the “Resource Links” column to the right.
While there is no “perfect” method, research does indicate that there is no substitute
for preparation and taking practice tests have proven to work.
Note: Be sure to be well prepared for the ACT, SAT and the college
admissions process by taking challenging academic courses in high school.
Tests
The PSAT Test
The PSAT is a shorter version of the SAT and can be great practice for that test.
It helps students become familiar with the SAT and can help increase your score.
The PSAT measures your critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills.
The PSAT also is the qualifying test for the National Merit scholarship program.
The SAT
The SAT is an aptitude test many colleges require for admission. Most students
take it during their junior or senior year of high school. The test can be taken
more than once to achieve a higher score. A combination of a strong SAT score
and high school grades can help you get accepted at your chosen college.
The PLAN Test
The PLAN serves as a great practice test for the ACT. It includes four
multiple-choice tests: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Your skills in these
subjects will make a big difference in school and, eventually, in your career.
The ACT
The ACT is another type of admissions test that examines your skills in English,
Math, Reading, and Science. The ACT plus Writing also tests your skills in
(you guessed it) Writing.
SAT vs. ACT
Now you know about the tests, but which one should you take? Or should you take
both? The answer is up to you. First check with the colleges you’re interested in
and see what they require. If either test is acceptable choose the one you have
found better results on through your PSAT and PLAN scores. Or, take both. Whichever
you choose make sure you prepare and study as these results are important.
Forms
Remember to work with the admissions office at the college or university you select.
The college itself may have some specific admissions forms required with your application.
Read the instructions and make sure you have filed all the paperwork properly and on-time.
Also, talk with the financial aid department to see if there are any scholarship applications
that you can fill out while you are in the application/admission process or after you are accepted.
Always remember if you have a question about anything on this site, feel free to
drop us a note at outreach@ismloans.org
and we’ll be happy to answer or elaborate on an item that is confusing or unclear.